Darren Helm discusses his crash-and-bang role with the Red Wings

Red Wings forward Darren Helm spoke to NHL.com's Adam Kimelman about his status as a fourth-liner who leads the Red Wings with 58 hits, as did Ken Holland and Mike Babcock. After another season with the Grand Rapids Griffins, Helm feels satisfied reprising his role from last season's Cup run, but Holland sees more potential in the rangy speedster:

May 20, NHL.com: "Last year I was a fourth-line guy, too," Helm told NHL.com. "It's just being hard on the forecheck, finishing my checks, creating energy. This year it's pretty much been the same. Been bumped around a couple times, played third line a few games, but I think this year the only difference is I'm playing a little bit more. ... I'm playing a little bit more, and I'm trying to create a little more offense then just get it in and finish my check."

While he's listed at 5-foot-11 and 172 pounds -- Holland said it's more like 195 -- Helm's role is to provide a physical element.

"One of the guys that was important for us last year was Dallas Drake, and the ingredient he brought was physical presence, finishing checks, getting in on the forecheck, laying in some body checks, and we've missed that ingredient," Holland said. "Mike Babcock and I talked down the stretch and we thought that Darren Helm could bring that ingredient that Dallas Drake had provided last year. He provides energy and speed, (but) his biggest thing is physical play. Over a seven-game series you want to wear the other team out, so you need guys who can finish checks and he's one of the guys that finishes lots of checks."

After going through last year's title run, Helm said he's more prepared to play his role this year.

"I know what it takes, how important and how big winning and the Cup really is," Helm told NHL.com. "You always play to win, but after going through it you see how big it is and how really hard it is to make it to the Final and win the championship. I got a little bit of experience now, so I'm aware and I'm not as nervous going into every game. I'm a little bit more calm and know what to expect."

The Wings also know what to expect from him -- and just how important his role is.

"Whenever we've won, our strength has been to roll four lines," Holland said.